The Volvo S60 II facelift, specifically the 2.0 T6 AWD Automatic variant, represents a significant evolution in the Swedish automaker’s mid-size sedan offering. Produced from 2015 to 2018, this model year falls within the second generation (2010-2018) of the S60, benefitting from a substantial refresh in 2013 that included styling updates and technological enhancements. The T6 designation denotes a high-performance trim, positioned near the top of the S60 lineup, offering a blend of luxury, performance, and all-weather capability through its standard all-wheel-drive system. This particular configuration aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a sporty yet refined driving experience, competing with established German rivals like the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | S60 |
| Generation | S60 II (facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 T6 (306 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.2 l/100 km (25.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 161 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 306 Hp @ 5700 rpm |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 2100-4800 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft.) |
| Maximum engine speed | 5700 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B4204T9 |
| Engine displacement | 1969 cm3 (120.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93.2 mm (3.67 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.3 l (8.77 US qt | 7.3 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1586 kg (3496.53 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2110 kg (4651.75 lbs.) |
| Max load | 524 kg (1155.22 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 380 l (13.42 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1749 l (61.77 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 67.5 l (17.83 US gal | 14.85 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Length | 4635 mm (182.48 in.) |
| Width | 1865 mm (73.43 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1899 mm (74.76 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2097 mm (82.56 in.) |
| Height | 1484 mm (58.43 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2776 mm (109.29 in.) |
| Front track | 1588 mm (62.52 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1585 mm (62.4 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 136 mm (5.35 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.3 m (37.07 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the S60 T6 is Volvo’s B4204T9 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine is a member of Volvo’s Drive-E family, characterized by its highly efficient design and reliance on turbocharging and direct injection. The B4204T9 utilizes a twin-scroll turbocharger and direct fuel injection to produce 306 horsepower at 5700 rpm and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque between 2100 and 4800 rpm. This broad torque curve contributes to strong acceleration and responsive performance. The engine features a relatively high 10.3:1 compression ratio, optimizing combustion efficiency. Paired with the engine is an eight-speed automatic transmission (Geartronic), developed in-house by Volvo. This transmission offers smooth and quick shifts, contributing to both performance and fuel economy. The all-wheel-drive system is a sophisticated setup, utilizing an electronically controlled clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles as needed, enhancing traction and stability in various driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The S60 T6 Automatic delivers a refined and engaging driving experience. The 2.0-liter engine, despite its relatively small displacement, provides ample power for confident overtaking and highway cruising. The eight-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned, offering seamless gear changes and contributing to a smooth ride. Compared to lower-powered S60 variants, such as the T5, the T6 offers significantly quicker acceleration – achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 5.6 seconds. While not as raw or visceral as some of its German competitors, the S60 T6 prioritizes comfort and usability. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent grip in all weather conditions, making it a practical choice for regions with inclement weather. The steering is precise and well-weighted, although it may lack some of the feedback found in more performance-focused vehicles.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S60 T6 Automatic typically came well-equipped as a premium trim level. Standard features often included leather upholstery, heated front seats, a sunroof, a premium audio system, and a suite of advanced safety technologies such as City Safety (Volvo’s collision avoidance system), lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional extras included navigation, adaptive cruise control, and upgraded interior trim materials. The interior design emphasized Scandinavian minimalism, with a clean and uncluttered dashboard layout. The infotainment system, while functional, was not always considered best-in-class compared to some competitors.
Chassis & Braking
The S60 II utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link independent rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling precision. The T6 model typically featured slightly stiffer suspension components compared to lower trims to enhance handling. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. The electronic stability control (ESC) system and anti-lock braking system (ABS) are standard, enhancing safety and control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The S60 T6 Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its strong performance, comfortable ride, and comprehensive safety features. However, some reviewers noted that the infotainment system could be improved and that the interior, while stylish, lacked the premium feel of some German rivals. Fuel economy was considered respectable for a vehicle in its class, averaging around 34.1 US mpg in combined driving. Compared to the S60 T5, the T6 offered a significant performance upgrade but came at a higher price point. The T6 also offered a more compelling alternative to the diesel-powered S60 D4 and D5 models, providing similar performance with a gasoline engine.
Legacy
The Volvo S60 II T6 Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the long term. The 2.0-liter engine, while turbocharged, is generally considered robust and durable. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and timing belt replacements, is crucial for ensuring longevity. On the used car market, the S60 T6 commands a slightly higher price than lower-trim models, reflecting its superior performance and equipment levels. It remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a stylish, safe, and comfortable mid-size sedan with a sporty edge.
